October 12th 2022 Queer Voices

Stages Theatre production "Plumsugah:The Rise of Lauren Anderson" Director and Choreographer

We speak with director, Deborah D.E.E.P. Mouton of the Stages Theatre production of "Plumsugah:The Rise of Lauren Anderson". This innovative new work blends spoken word, dance, music, and theater for a vivid and intimate look into Lauren Anderson’s rise to ballet royalty and her eventual triumphant rise to accept her authentic self. In 1990, Lauren Anderson became one of the first Black principal ballerinas of a major ballet company when she ascended to Principal Dancer of the Houston Ballet. Unknown to her adoring audiences, she brought with her on stage the weight of her own tumultuous relationships, abuse, and battles with addiction. In PLUMSHUGA , you’ll share a conversation with Lauren at home, where she breaks the fourth wall to discuss her greatest trials and successes by reliving them in memories painted by music and dance. This is Lauren Anderson’s story in her words, for the first time ever.

Guest: Deborah Mouton
https://stageshouston.com

Then we speak Harrison Homer-Guy, activist and choreographer of Plumsugah about his work on this production and his work in the community.  A leader in Houston’s Black queer community since 2005, Guy was no stranger to being at the helm of an LGBTQ-focused organization. To those who knew him, his work, and his community involvement, there was no question of what he was capable of doing or what he had already accomplished. But the Mayor’s Board presented a new challenge for Guy—and the community was watching closely. What transpired over the next three years was sincere, honest, and inspiring leadership. Guy also is behind the creation of Urban Souls, In the Beginning History: Urban Souls Dance Company (USDC) grew from a solo performed by founding artistic director Harrison Guy at the city-wide dance festival Dance Houston on July 30, 2004. Harrison decided to explore his potential for leadership and choreography and began teaching a free modern dance class on Sundays at Barnevelder Movement Arts Complex. 

Guest: Harrison Homer-Guy
http://urbansouls.org

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